Should you really stop using Windows 10?

So you may not have the money to buy a new computer right now. What can you do instead? Replace Windows with another operating system, and it’s best to continue getting security updates. This will require some technical skills on your part, but don’t worry: it’s mostly a matter of following the instructions.

Option 3: Turn your computer into a Chromebook

Have you ever used a Chromebook? It’s just a laptop that can only run the Google Chrome browser. These tend to work well even though they usually contain substandard components, so they’re especially useful for older laptops. In the last few years Google launched ChromeOS Flex operating systemwhich allows you to install ChromeOS on your own device. There’s a good chance it’s running on your old computer.

There are downsides here. If you rely on a specific Windows program, you won’t be able to use it in ChromeOS. You will only be able to run web applications that are loaded in the browser. If you mostly use the Chrome web browser, there’s a good chance you don’t miss Windows at all.

If you’re curious, WIRED has a handy guide to ChromeOS Flex, and Google’s offerings Home installation instructions. You basically need to check if your laptop is supported, put the operating system on a flash drive, and then boot from the flash drive. Note that installing a new operating system will delete everything currently on your computer, so be sure to back up your photos and documents before doing so.

Option 4: Embrace Linux

ChromeOS is easy to use, but not everyone can live their entire life in a browser window. If you want to replace Windows with a feature-packed operating system, it’s time to consider Linux. This is a completely free alternative to Windows, and tends to work better on older Windows devices.

Linux has a reputation for being picky, which may be the case depending on which version of Linux you decide to use. But there are versions of Linux that treat ease of use as a prominent feature. Linux Mint It’s a solid starting point for most people, and it delivers Great step by step instructions to get started. As with ChromeOS, you’ll need to download the operating system, load it onto a flash drive, boot from the flash drive, and finally install the operating system (which will delete everything currently on your computer).

If any of this is too much for you to figure out, there’s an easier way: ask all your friends if any of them are Linux users. If they are, offer to buy them a 12-pack in exchange for your help in setting up Linux — I promise it will get done. They can also teach you the basics and show you how to navigate around your new system.

Because there will be an adjustment. We’re talking about a completely new operating system. If you want to spend a few more years outside your computer, Linux is probably your best choice, even if it means a bit of a learning curve.

Updated: October 14, 12 noon. This story, originally published in May 2025, has been updated to reflect that support for Windows 10 has now officially ended.